Helen Keller National Center

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  • Outdoors

    A structure made of dried corn stalks set in a green lawn.

  • Building

    Exterior view of a healthcare facility, featuring modern architectural design amidst greenery.

  • Trees

    A peaceful curved path in a park surrounded by greenery and a fence.

  • Landscaping

    A serene outdoor space featuring lush grass, several trees, and a building in the background.

  • Outdoor

    A rustic wooden structure surrounded by greenery in a park.

  • Nature

    A person in a park stands next to a dog, while another object is visible on the ground nearby.

  • Exercise Equipment

    A variety of exercise machines lined up in a gym.

  • Gym

    A gym setup featuring a weight bench and other exercise equipment.

  • Fitness Center

    A view of exercise equipment in a gym setting.

Helen Keller National Center

111 Middle Neck Road, Sands Point, NY 11050

For more information about senior living options: (844) 490-3973

4.4 from 35 reviews
5 stars
24
4 stars
6
3 stars
2
2 stars
1
1 stars
2

Assisted Living

Overall Review of Helen Keller National Center

Pros

  • pro They received wonderful training as a sighted-guide/co-navigator and Deaf-Blind interpreter, along with valuable information about vision loss.
  • pro They received quality care at its best, with friendly, knowledgeable staff and a top-of-the-line medical facility.
  • pro They provided great service to humanity.
  • pro The staff are very helpful and knowledgeable.
  • pro The center has tremendous staff and facilities.
  • pro They do great work for the sight-impaired.
  • pro The iCANconnect team is very helpful.
  • pro They had an incredible experience helping a deaf-blind client, learning about love, strength and hope.

Cons

  • pro A reviewer stated that HKNC treated him like a child and tried to brainwash him.
  • pro A reviewer claimed staff entered his room without permission when there was no emergency.
  • pro A reviewer alleged HKNC made false statements about him and his guide dog to get him in trouble.
  • pro A reviewer asserted HKNC falsely claimed to be the only training center for deaf-blind people and called that a lie.
  • pro A reviewer accused HKNC of using regional reps to coerce new students to attend and of brainwashing VR counselors to refer people there.
  • pro A reviewer described various negative living/facility issues (no cellphone service, unfriendly residence-hall staff, poor laundry, cold showers) and advised not returning to HKNC.
  • pro A reviewer claimed HKNC broke laws and should be shut down.

Review

A wide range of sentiments swirl around the Helen Keller National Center and related services, painting a picture of a place that many people turn to for training, support, and community, while others recount difficult experiences that have left them wary. On the positive side, many describe environments that feel welcoming and capable of making a real difference in the lives of deaf-blind individuals. They recall nice rooms, compassionate guidance, and a sense that serious effort is put into helping participants learn to navigate the world more independently. In particular, there are accounts of wonderful training in essential skills - ranging from sighted-guide and co-navigator techniques to interpreting for deaf-blind individuals - and of receiving clear, practical information about the various kinds of vision loss and how those losses intersect with deafness. The tone is often affirming when it comes to the people who staff the programs: friendly, knowledgeable professionals who appear deeply invested in the success and well-being of the learners. Many reviewers emphasize that the center's care and approach feel attentive and professional, portraying the organization as capable of delivering quality support to people with diverse needs.

Beyond the classroom and training rooms, a sense of regional and national reach emerges. Reviewers talk about the center's ability to serve deaf-blind adults from across the country, highlighting a broad mission that aims to extend its services well beyond a single city or region. There is appreciation for the scale and scope of the facility, with references to a strong campus environment that includes a focus on living arrangements, practical services, and opportunities for personal growth. The descriptions suggest a setting that concentrates resources and expertise in ways that can benefit people who require specialized training and accommodations, underscored by remarks about the center's dedication to improving quality of life for the deaf-blind community.

Yet the narrative is not uniformly favorable. One long, sharply critical account from a former student who attended in 2014-2015 alleges a highly disruptive experience. According to this account, the center treated the student "like a child" and attempted to impose methods that felt coercive rather than empowering. The reviewer claims to have endured numerous breaches of privacy, with staff entering the room without permission when there was no emergency, and alleges that the program produced false statements about the student and the guide dog. The account describes a climate in which regional representatives were used as salespersons to steer new students toward HKNC, and it accuses VR counselors of being nudged to direct clients to enroll there. There are accusations of brainwashing and of attempts to control outcomes through paperwork that included release forms and publication permissions. The reviewer also calls for broader investigations and urges others who had similar experiences to come forward, portraying HKNC as a center that may not always respect the autonomy and rights of its participants.

Additional critical observations center on day-to-day and logistical concerns. Some reviewers report substantial dissatisfaction with living arrangements and campus services, citing a lack of cellphone service, unfriendly staff in residence halls, unsatisfactory laundry, inconsistent food quality, and physical shortcomings such as hard-to-stay mattresses and lightweight furniture. There are mentions of slow or frustrating service, with complaints about cold or poorly managed utilities in the training and living facilities. A few comments touch on sensitive dynamics, including perceptions of bias in interpretation staff and a sense of isolation within the living environment. One reviewer even describes experiencing a visible tension around cultural or racial stereotypes, which underscores the importance of respectful, inclusive attitudes in all aspects of the center's operations. Taken together, these remarks suggest that for some individuals, the day-to-day experience at the center does not live up to the expectations set by its mission or by the warmth of its more aspirational descriptions.

Despite the difficulties described, there are also notes of personal engagement and affection that hint at the deeper human connections that can form in such settings. One account reflects a positive, personal impact: an individual who volunteered or worked with a young man who was both deaf and blind, forming a meaningful bond that brought laughter and hope. The volunteer describes sharing a fond weekly ritual - going to a local coffee spot - while also learning about love, strength, and resilience from their client. This narrative closes with a sense of purpose and ambition, as the volunteer expresses a desire to pursue opportunities at the Institute and to submit a resume in the near future. It serves as a reminder that even within complicated, mixed experiences, there can be moments of genuine connection, personal growth, and forward-looking dreams.

Taken as a whole, these voices sketch a complex portrait of an institution at the intersection of specialized training, advocacy, and community support. On one end, the center is celebrated for its purpose-driven work, the expertise of its staff, and its capacity to help deaf-blind individuals access important skills and information. On the other end, serious concerns are raised about privacy, autonomy, organizational practices, and living conditions, with some former participants calling for investigations and for greater transparency and choice in where people receive training. The spectrum of experiences underscores the reality that programs serving deaf-blind communities are deeply consequential in people's lives - affecting not only practical independence but also personal dignity, trust, and the sense of belonging within a community that understands and meets their unique needs. Across these varied perspectives, the common thread remains the ongoing human effort to enable people to live fuller, more connected lives, even as systems and institutions continue to evolve in how they deliver support, protect rights, and uphold the values of respect and empowerment.

Features

Housing

  • 52 resident community capacity 52 resident community capacity

Types of Care

  • Assisted Living Assisted LivingAssisted living facilities provide crucial support and care for seniors who may need help with daily tasks such as medication management, bathing, and meal preparation. These communities offer a safe and comfortable environment where seniors can maintain their independence while receiving the assistance they need to thrive in their golden years.

Amenities

  • Air-conditioning Air-conditioningAir conditioning is important for seniors as they are more vulnerable to heat-related illnesses and may have underlying health conditions that make it difficult for them to regulate their body temperature. It helps to keep them comfortable, safe, and healthy in hot weather.
  • Beauty salon Beauty salonBeauty salons are important for seniors because they provide a space for them to feel pampered, socialize, and maintain their personal grooming and hygiene. Regular visits to a beauty salon can help boost seniors' self-esteem and overall well-being.
  • Cable or satellite TV Cable or satellite TVCable or satellite TV is important for seniors because it provides entertainment, news, and companionship, helping to combat loneliness and boredom. It also offers a wide range of programming options tailored to different interests and preferences.
  • Computer center Computer centerA computer center is essential for seniors as it provides access to technology, communication tools, and resources that can enhance their daily lives. It allows them to stay connected with loved ones, engage in online activities, and learn new skills, ultimately promoting socialization and mental stimulation.
  • Dining room Dining roomDining rooms are important for seniors as they provide a space for socialization, connection, and nutritious meals. They offer opportunities for residents to bond over shared meals, foster a sense of community, and promote healthy eating habits. Dining rooms also ensure that seniors have access to well-balanced meals tailored to their dietary needs and preferences.
  • Fitness room Fitness roomHaving a fitness room in a senior living community is essential for seniors to stay active, maintain their physical health, and improve their overall well-being. Regular exercise can help prevent falls, reduce the risk of chronic diseases, and promote mental sharpness. It also provides social opportunities for residents to connect with others and enjoy a sense of community.
  • Fully furnished Fully furnishedFully furnished senior living communities are important for seniors because they provide convenience, comfort, and a hassle-free moving experience. Seniors can easily settle into their new living space without the stress of having to buy and move furniture. This allows them to focus on enjoying their new home and community.
  • Gaming room Gaming roomGaming rooms are important for seniors as they provide a fun and engaging environment for socializing, cognitive stimulation, and physical activity. Games can improve memory, problem-solving skills, and overall mental well-being while fostering friendships and reducing feelings of isolation.
  • Garden GardenGardens are important for seniors as they provide a peaceful and therapeutic environment for relaxation, physical activity, and socialization. Being in nature has been shown to reduce stress, improve mood, and promote overall well-being. Gardens also offer opportunities for seniors to engage in gardening activities, which can improve mobility, flexibility, and cognitive function. Additionally, gardens create a sense of community and connection with others who share a passion for plants and outdoor spaces.
  • Housekeeping services Housekeeping servicesHousekeeping services are important for seniors because they help maintain a clean and safe living environment, promote independence, and reduce the risk of accidents or illnesses. Additionally, having assistance with household chores can alleviate physical strain and allow seniors to focus on other aspects of their well-being.
  • Kitchenette KitchenetteKitchenettes are important for seniors living in senior living communities because they provide the convenience and independence of being able to prepare simple meals and snacks in the comfort of their own living space. This can help promote a sense of autonomy and well-being for seniors, allowing them to maintain some level of control over their dietary choices and daily routines.
  • Move-in coordination Move-in coordinationMove-in coordination is important for seniors because it helps ease the transition into their new living environment. It ensures that all logistics, such as packing, organizing movers, and setting up utilities are taken care of, allowing seniors to focus on settling in and adjusting to their new home. Having a smooth move-in process can alleviate stress and anxiety, making the transition smoother and more enjoyable for seniors.
  • Outdoor space Outdoor spaceOutdoor spaces are important for seniors as they provide opportunities for physical activity, social interaction, exposure to natural light and fresh air, and a sense of connection to nature. Having access to outdoor spaces can improve overall well-being and quality of life for older adults living in senior communities.
  • Private bathrooms Private bathroomsPrivate bathrooms are important for seniors in senior living communities because they provide independence, dignity, and comfort. Having a private bathroom allows seniors to maintain their personal hygiene routines without the need for assistance, promoting a sense of autonomy and privacy. Additionally, private bathrooms help prevent the spread of infections and provide a safe and clean environment for seniors to navigate safely.
  • Restaurant-style dining Restaurant-style diningRestaurant-style dining is important for seniors because it allows them to enjoy delicious, nutritious meals in a social and upscale setting. This enhances their dining experience, promotes healthy eating habits, and fosters socialization with fellow residents, ultimately contributing to their overall well-being and quality of life.
  • Small library Small librarySmall libraries are important for seniors as they provide access to a variety of reading materials, including books, newspapers, and magazines. This can help stimulate their minds, keep them engaged, and provide a sense of community through book clubs and other social activities. Additionally, reading has been shown to improve cognitive function and overall mental well-being in older adults.
  • Telephone TelephoneTelephones are important for seniors as they provide a lifeline for communication with loved ones, emergency services, and healthcare providers. They offer a sense of security and independence, enabling seniors to stay connected and access assistance when needed.
  • Wellness center Wellness centerWellness centers are important for seniors because they offer a variety of programs and services that promote physical, mental, and emotional well-being. These centers provide opportunities for exercise, socialization, education, and relaxation, helping seniors maintain their overall health and quality of life.
  • Wi-Fi/high-speed internet available Wi-Fi/high-speed internet availableWi-Fi/high-speed internet is important for seniors to stay connected with loved ones, access online resources, and participate in virtual activities to combat feelings of loneliness and isolation. It also allows them to easily manage healthcare needs, access entertainment, and engage in lifelong learning opportunities.

Transportation

  • LaGuardia (11 miles away) LaGuardia (11 miles away)
  • Westchester Cty (15 miles away) Westchester Cty (15 miles away)
  • John F Kennedy International (16 miles away) John F Kennedy International (16 miles away)
  • Community operated transportation Community operated transportationCommunity operated transportation is crucial for seniors as it provides them with the means to access essential services, social activities, and medical appointments. It allows seniors to maintain their independence and quality of life by ensuring they can participate in activities outside of their homes. Additionally, community-operated transportation services offer a safe and reliable way for seniors to travel without having to rely on family or friends for assistance.
  • Transportation arrangement Transportation arrangementTransportation arrangements are crucial for seniors as they may face challenges with driving, mobility, or access to public transportation. Having reliable transportation services ensures that seniors can easily attend appointments, social activities, and maintain their independence and quality of life.

Care Services

  • 24-hour call system 24-hour call system24-hour call systems are important for seniors because they provide peace of mind and immediate assistance in case of emergencies. This technology ensures that help is always available, promoting safety and security for elderly individuals living alone or in assisted living facilities.
  • 24-hour supervision 24-hour supervision24-hour supervision is important for seniors to ensure their safety, well-being, and access to immediate assistance in case of emergencies or health issues. This constant support provides peace of mind for both seniors and their loved ones, allowing them to age in place with dignity and security.
  • Activities of daily living assistance Activities of daily living assistanceActivities of daily living assistance are important for seniors because they provide essential support with tasks such as eating, bathing, dressing, and mobility. This assistance helps seniors maintain their independence, dignity, and overall quality of life as they age.
  • Assistance with bathing Assistance with bathingAssistance with bathing is crucial for seniors as it helps maintain personal hygiene, prevents infections, and ensures their overall well-being and comfort. It also provides a sense of dignity and independence for seniors who may struggle with this task on their own.
  • Assistance with dressing Assistance with dressingAssistance with dressing is important for seniors because it helps maintain their independence, promotes personal hygiene, prevents accidents and injuries, and improves overall quality of life. This service ensures that seniors can continue to dress comfortably and confidently, despite any physical limitations they may have.
  • Assistance with transfers Assistance with transfersAssistance with transfers is crucial for seniors as it helps prevent falls and injuries, maintains their independence, and ensures they can safely navigate their living environment. It also provides peace of mind for both seniors and their loved ones.
  • Diabetes diet Diabetes dietA diabetes diet is crucial for seniors as it helps manage blood sugar levels, reduce risks of complications, and improve overall health and well-being. By following a balanced and nutritious diet tailored to their specific needs, seniors can better control their diabetes and enhance their quality of life.
  • Meal preparation and service Meal preparation and serviceMeal preparation and service are crucial for seniors as they may have limited mobility or energy to cook nutritious meals. Having access to healthy and convenient food options can ensure they are getting the proper nutrition needed to maintain their overall health and well-being.
  • Medication management Medication managementMedication management is crucial for seniors to ensure they are taking the right medications at the correct dosages and times. This helps prevent adverse drug interactions, reduces the risk of medication errors, and promotes overall health and well-being. Proactive management also allows for adjustments as needed based on changing health conditions or new prescriptions.
  • Special dietary restrictions Special dietary restrictionsSpecial dietary restrictions are important for seniors because age-related changes in metabolism and health conditions can make it difficult for their bodies to process certain foods. By following a diet tailored to their specific needs, seniors can maintain their overall health and well-being, manage chronic conditions, and reduce the risk of complications such as malnutrition or food interactions with medications.

Dining

  • Diabetes diet Diabetes dietA diabetes diet is crucial for seniors as it helps manage blood sugar levels, reduce risks of complications, and improve overall health and well-being. By following a balanced and nutritious diet tailored to their specific needs, seniors can better control their diabetes and enhance their quality of life.
  • Special dietary restrictions Special dietary restrictionsSpecial dietary restrictions are important for seniors because age-related changes in metabolism and health conditions can make it difficult for their bodies to process certain foods. By following a diet tailored to their specific needs, seniors can maintain their overall health and well-being, manage chronic conditions, and reduce the risk of complications such as malnutrition or food interactions with medications.

Activities

  • Community-sponsored activities Community-sponsored activitiesCommunity-sponsored activities are important for seniors as they provide opportunities for social interaction, mental stimulation, and physical activity. These activities can help improve overall well-being, combat loneliness and isolation, and promote a sense of belonging and purpose among older adults.
  • Concierge services Concierge servicesConcierge services are essential for seniors as they provide assistance with daily tasks and errands, enhance their quality of life by offering convenience and personalized care, and promote a sense of safety and security.
  • Fitness programs Fitness programsFitness programs are crucial for seniors as they help improve strength, flexibility, balance, and overall well-being. Staying active can reduce the risk of chronic diseases, improve mental health, and enhance quality of life in older adults.
  • Planned day trips Planned day tripsPlanned day trips are important for seniors because they offer opportunities for socialization, mental stimulation, and physical activity. They provide a change of scenery and help seniors stay engaged and connected to their community, promoting overall well-being and quality of life.
  • Resident-run activities Resident-run activitiesResident-run activities are important for seniors as they encourage social interaction, creativity, and a sense of autonomy. These activities empower seniors to stay engaged and active in their community while fostering meaningful connections with their peers.
  • Scheduled daily activities Scheduled daily activitiesScheduled daily activities are important for seniors because they provide structure, socialization, mental stimulation, and physical activity. Engaging in regular activities can improve overall well-being and quality of life for seniors living in a community setting.

Description

The Helen Keller National Center, located in the picturesque Sands Point, NY, is an exceptional assisted living community designed to provide comfort, support, and a vibrant lifestyle for its residents. This thoughtfully crafted facility offers a range of amenities to ensure a fulfilling living experience. Residents can enjoy the convenience of a beauty salon, relax in well-furnished accommodations with private bathrooms, and stay connected with Wi-Fi/high-speed internet throughout the premises.

The center features a diverse dining experience with restaurant-style meals that cater to special dietary restrictions. The on-site dining room provides a warm atmosphere for residents to gather and share their meals. Additional amenities include a fitness room for wellness activities, gaming and community rooms for socializing, outdoor spaces perfect for relaxation, and a small library for those who love reading.

Care services at Helen Keller National Center are tailored to meet individual needs. With 24-hour supervision and assistance with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and transfers, residents can feel secure and supported at all times. Specialized care including diabetes diet management and medication oversight ensures that health-related needs are effectively managed by dedicated staff.

A robust activity program enhances the quality of life at the center. Residents have access to concierge services, planned day trips that offer exploration opportunities beyond the community, fitness programs designed to keep them active, resident-run activities that promote engagement, and scheduled daily activities that foster social interaction.

Conveniently situated near local amenities including caf?s, parks, pharmacies, restaurants, transportation options, physicians' offices, and hospitals?residents have everything they need within reach while enjoying the serene environment of Sands Point.

At Helen Keller National Center in Sands Point NY?where comfort meets compassionate care?residents find not just a place to live but also a supportive community that inspires connection and well-being.

Nearby Places of Interest

Pharmacies

  • Rite Aid (2 miles)
  • CVS Pharmacy (4.6 miles)
  • CVS Pharmacy (5 miles)
  • CVS Pharmacy (5.7 miles)
  • CVS Pharmacy (5.8 miles)
  • Walgreens (6 miles)
  • CVS Pharmacy (6.1 miles)

Hospitals

  • St Francis Hospital (3.9 miles)
  • Montefiore New Rochelle Hospital (6 miles)
  • Division of Vascular/Interventional Radiology at Long Island Jewish Medical Center (7 miles)
  • Winthrop University Hospital New Life Center (8.5 miles)
  • Winthrop University Hospital (8.5 miles)
  • St Vincent's Hospital-Westchester (9.2 miles)
  • St Barnabas Hospital (10 miles)

Transportation

  • LIRR - Manhasset Station (4.1 miles)
  • LIRR - Little Neck Station (6 miles)
  • Metro North - Larchmont Train Station (6.2 miles)
  • Pelham Station (6.9 miles)
  • Metro North - Mt Vernon East Train Station (7.9 miles)
  • Metro North - Harrison Train Station (7.9 miles)
  • MTA Subway - Parkchester (8.6 miles)

Physicians

  • North Shore Gastroenterology Associates PC (4.3 miles)
  • 2 Pro Health Plaza (6.7 miles)
  • Winthrop Professional Building (8.5 miles)

Parks

  • Allenwood Park (4.4 miles)
  • Manor Park (4.9 miles)
  • Bailey Arboretum (6.3 miles)
  • Memorial Park (6.3 miles)
  • Rye Town Park (7.2 miles)
  • Alley Pond Park (8.4 miles)
  • Cunningham Park (9.4 miles)

Restaurants

  • Toku Modern Asian (4.4 miles)
  • Hendrick's Tavern (4.7 miles)
  • Bar Frites (5 miles)
  • McDonald's (6.9 miles)
  • Burger King (7.2 miles)
  • McDonald's (8 miles)
  • Taco Bell (8.4 miles)

Cafes

  • Cafe Zeppieri (4.7 miles)
  • Starbucks (4.9 miles)
  • Starbucks (7.1 miles)
  • State Of The Art Coffee (7.5 miles)
  • Starbucks (9.6 miles)
  • Starbucks (9.8 miles)
  • Mongo's Coffee (10.2 miles)

Theaters

  • AMC Bay Plaza Cinema 13 (6.6 miles)
  • AMC Roosevelt Field 8 (9 miles)
  • AMC Fresh Meadows 7 (9.1 miles)
  • Regal Westbury Imax & RPX (9.3 miles)
  • AMC Port Chester 14 (10.1 miles)

Places of Worship

  • Community Church of East Williston (7.5 miles)

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